About
Ghost Crabbing is a popular night time activity that involves the careful catch and release of Ocypode quadrata or the Atlantic Ghost Crab. When you join us for an "evening of catching," you'll be supplied with more than the nets, flashlights and buckets necessary to scoop up these quick moving crustaceans. Our Quests provide knowledgeable Scouts that will help you find, catch and appreciate the Ghost Crab.
What the Heck is Ghost Crabbing?
Atlantic Ghost Crab Facts
The Atlantic Ghost Crab's Latin name Ocypode quadrata literally means "swift-footed square;" accurately describing the crab's shape and ability to scurry quickly over the beach sands.
Adult Ghost Crabs are found on beaches from Block Island, Rhode Island all the way south to Santa Catarina, Brazil.
Ghost Crabs have an average lifespan of 3 years.
Ghost Crabs spend most of their time in burrows dug into the sand. Burrows can be 4 feet deep and as much as 950 feet from the water's high tide line.
From October to April, Ghost Crabs hibernate in their burrows.
Ghost Crabs communicate by rubbing their legs together to create a "bubbling sound," and by banging their large claws on the sand.
Male Ghost Crabs tend to avoid physical confrontation during mating season.
Racoons, Burrowing Owls and many species of Gull eat Ghost Crabs.
Prey for Ghost Crabs include a variety of items including; Mole Crabs, Coquina Clams, the eggs and hatchlings of Loggerhead Sea Turtles and almost any piece of decaying flesh found on the beach.
